Not everyone likes laundry day, especially if your washer smells less than fresh. You can easily eliminate the smell with theseno-sweat ways to rid your machine of foul odors.
Most of the dirt from our clothes gets washed away in the water. But after a number of washes, debris can build up leaving you with a less than efficient machine. High efficiency (HE) washing machines use less energy and hot water, which can result in a higher build up of dirt and odors. Prevention is the best approach to maintenance. With these easy tips, you can help get rid of the smell in your washing machine.
Washing machine freshness tips
Avoid washing too large or too small a load, and make sure you’re using the proper amount of detergent.
- Always remove clothes from the washer as soon as the cycle is complete. Leaving damp clothes until it’s convenient to put them in the dryer might work with your schedule, but if left too long, they can invite unwelcome bacteria.
- Once you’ve removed the clothes, leave the door to the washer open or slightly ajar to allow the inner tub cavity to dry.
Clean the machine regularly
If you have pets, you may periodically see a build up of pet hair in your washer.
- Use your vacuum’s upholstery attachment to suck up the pet hair on a regular basis.
- If you use fabric softener and/or powder detergent, it can build up in the dispenser to a gunky mess. Wipe out or remove the dispenser and scrub in the sink using soap and hot water.
Most front-load washing machines have a maintenance or cleaning cycle.
- Add 1-2 cups of distilled white vinegar and run a cycle with hot water. The vinegar will help dissolve detergent residue and lime build-up. (Note: Use the liquid detergent dispenser, do NOT add vinegar to the bleach dispenser. These two should never mix.)
- For added cleaning action, use a half-cup of baking soda – but don’t use detergent. If your machine does not have a cleaning option, select a standard cycle using hot water.
- If available, select the Extra Rinse. Add the vinegar and let the cycle run through to completion.
Inspect the parts
Look for mould around the door seals.
- If you see or smell mildew, wipe with cloth and all-purpose cleaner or vinegar to kill bacteria.
Clean the drain pump filter monthly as lint, hair and other debris often get caught here.
- The drain pump filter is usually located on the front of the unit. Refer to your washer’s user manual.
The agitator in top loading washing machines can hide all kinds of grime.
- Use a 50/50 solution of water and vinegar to scrub around the top and base of the agitator or, for a complete cleaning, remove it altogether. You’ll need tools to remove it. Refer to your washer’s manufacturer user manual.
Getting rid of the smell from your washing machine will keep it clean. In return, you will have cleaner clothes and the machine itself will also last longer.
